And when asked if Falcao’s return will put pressure on Van Persie, Van Gaal replied: “Every player in my selection has to fight for his position and I shall always take the best of the players, and it must also be suitable for the mix of players.

“So, it is also an obligation of a player that he does that.”

Van Gaal’s Manchester United side are fourth in the Premier League table heading into Saturday’s game.